Director of Development

Highlands School is a vibrant leader in independent education in the Birmingham metropolitan region. Highlands School's whole-child focused academic program – guided by a comprehensive emphasis on physical, social-emotional, creative and intellectual development – educates and inspires students in preschool through 8th grade. The School was founded in 1958 and holds dual accreditation with the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) and Cognia.

Highlands School is seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Development to lead our fundraising efforts and foster strong relationships within our community. The ideal candidate will be responsible for ensuring that our annual fundraising goals are met or exceeded, planning and executing a variety of fundraising events, and engaging with alumni, parents, and the broader community. This role also serves as the primary liaison to the Parent Auxiliary.

This is a full-time, 12-month senior administrative position, reporting to the Head of School.

• Fundraising: Develop and implement strategies to meet or exceed annual fundraising goals. The Highlands Fund is a critical component of the school’s annual budget and supports the operating budget.
• Major Gifts: Identify, cultivate, and solicit major donors to help Highlands School achieve its fundraising goals.
• Strategic Goals: Work closely with all relevant team members to develop and implement strategic goals and initiatives for fundraising, alumni engagement, parent relations, and development communications.
• Event Planning: Plan, organize, and execute fundraising and community events throughout the school year, including the bi-annual Highlands School auction. The Director will also work closely with the Parent Auxiliary to plan school-wide events.
• Community Engagement: Foster strong relationships with alumni, parents, and Highlands School community members to support the school’s mission and fundraising efforts. As part of this, the Director will also serve as the primary liaison to the Parent Association, ensuring effective communication and collaboration.
• Donor Relations: Cultivate and maintain relationships with current and potential donors, ensuring they are informed and engaged with the school's activities and needs.
• Alumni Development & Engagement: Develop and promote active alumni engagement through regular communications including social media, alumni activities and programs, and maintaining/expanding current alumni database.
• Reporting: Prepare regular reports on fundraising activities, progress towards goals, and the impact of funds raised for the Head of School and Highlands School Board of Trustees.

• Collaborate with the Director of Marketing and Communications to draft and publish school-wide fundraising communications, including videos, campaign materials, alumni newsletters, and the Annual Report
• Craft gift proposals and grants
• Plan the annual Highlands School graduation ceremony
• Manage Grade Level Parent outreach and processes along with the help of the Parents Auxiliary President
• Serve as the school liaison to the Advancement Board Committee
• Manage departmental budget and reconcile monthly to ensure gift records are correct
• Being a visible presence in all aspects of school life, programs, activities, etc.
• Some limited night and weekend work may be required
• Other duties as needed and assigned by the Head of School

• Bachelor's degree in a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Proven experience in fundraising, event planning, and donor relations
• Working knowledge Raiser’s Edge and Microsoft Excel
• Established connections within the Highlands School and/or Birmingham communities
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong organizational and project management abilities
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups, including staff, volunteers, and community members
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and sensitivity
• Passion for education and the mission of Highlands School

Finalists will also be asked to submit a writing sample and complete a background check.

We cannot accept electronic signatures on the application. Candidates must scan or send an application with an original, print signature.

Highlands School does not discriminate based on race, creed, color, religious belief, gender, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status or any other protected class pursuant to applicable local, state or federal laws.

The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies:

• Kavita Vasil, Head of School
• Highlands School, 4901 Old Leeds Road, Birmingham, AL 35213

For further information on notice of nondiscrimination, visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). for the address and phone number of the office that serves your area, or call